HS Code for Solar Garden Lights
The HS Code for solar garden lights is 940540. The MFN duty rate for importing to the US is 3.9%.
| HS Code (6-digit) | 940540 |
|---|---|
| US Duty Rate (MFN) | 3.9% |
| EU Duty Rate (MFN) | 2.7% |
| Chapter | 94 |
| Heading | 9405 |
| Last Updated | 2026-05 |
Description
Non-electrical lamps and lighting fittings
HS Code 940540 covers solar-powered garden lights, which are non-electrical lighting fittings, with a U.S. MFN duty rate of 3.9%.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the specific packaging requirements for shipping solar garden lights under HTS 940540 to prevent customs delays?
Solar garden lights must be packaged to clearly separate any integrated lithium-ion batteries, as they are regulated as dangerous goods for transport. The outer packaging must be marked with the applicable UN number (e.g., UN 3480 for lithium-ion batteries contained in equipment) and meet the robust construction requirements of Packing Instruction PI 966, Section II. Failure to comply can lead to shipment rejection or significant delays at port.
What is the specific U.S. import restriction for solar garden lights under HTS 9405.40 regarding light source requirements?
For classification under HTS 9405.40 as a non-electrical lamp, U.S. regulations require that the solar garden lights be designed for use exclusively with non-filament lamps, such as LEDs. If the fixture is designed for or capable of operating with an incandescent bulb, it may be classified elsewhere and subject to different duty rates. This distinction is critical for correct tariff application and customs entry.
How does the material composition of solar garden lights affect their classification under HTS 940540?
Classification under HTS 940540 as "non-electrical lamps and lighting fittings" is determined by the primary source of illumination. For solar garden lights, this requires that the light is generated by non-electrical means, such as a flame, gas, or, critically, sunlight stored in integrated batteries. If the light is produced by an LED or bulb powered solely by this stored solar energy, and not by a connection to an electrical grid or fuel, it meets the material-specific criteria for this heading.
Country Import Restrictions for Solar Garden Lights
The primary country-specific restriction for importing solar garden lights under HTS 9405.40 relates to battery regulations. Notably, the United States prohibits the import of products containing new, non-rechargeable alkaline batteries from Cuba, Iran, North Korea, and Sudan (unless specifically licensed). Furthermore, all solar lights containing lithium batteries must comply with international transport safety standards, such as UN 38.3 testing, which is strictly enforced by customs authorities in the EU, US, and Canada. Some countries may also have specific waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) registration or marking requirements prior to import.
Common Classification Mistakes for Solar Garden Lights
A frequent error is classifying solar garden lights solely under 9405.40 as 'other electric lamps' without verifying the light source. Units with integrated LED modules are correctly classified here, but those with a traditional, replaceable filament bulb may fall under 9405.41. Another mistake involves parts: if importing just the solar panel or pole without the light fixture, these components are typically classified elsewhere (e.g., 8541.40 for photovoltaic cells). Improperly grouping these goods with non-electric outdoor lighting (9405.50) is also common. Ensure the product description explicitly states it is solar-powered and electric.
Related HS Codes
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